Tips for Helping Your Parents Downsize

Author

Aston Gardens at Pelican Marsh

Posted on

Dec 09, 2021

Book/Edition

Florida - Southwest

share-this
Share This
For more information on Aston Gardens, Click Here.
Prior to making the move to any one of our Florida senior living communities or any other, a major undertaking must occur downsizing. And a mission it is. While some downsize in stages and have already moved to smaller homes in the recent years before moving to an independent living community, others come from homes they have lived in for 30-40 years.
Downsizing is a huge transformation that involves a massive course of action to de-clutter followed by a major shift in the way of thinking. To assist in the process, here are some tips for helping your parents downsize.
Take Small Steps
Rather than trying to have your parents (primarily your mom) wrap their minds around the entire house, take small steps by tackling a room. By limiting the time you spend and taking a room that is relatively easy to de-clutter (see below), you can get your parents into the groove of getting rid of the stuff in the house. After a couple of rooms are cleaned out, a sudden change in thinking takes place and everyone is often on board. More than likely, one parent will embrace the whole idea and help you bring the other parent into the fold.
De-Clutter
Before you can think about downsizing, you need to de-clutter. If you have ever performed a good spring cleaning or even cleaned out a junk drawer, you know how to create three piles keep, throw away and give away. When you de-clutter, you realize just how much junk you have accumulated over the years think about how much junk after 30-40 years! Once this is accomplished, you have a better idea of how to proceed. FYI you don't have to wait until your parents decide to move to de-clutter.
Have a Plan for Furniture and Belongings
It helps to select a new residence in a senior living community where you want to live so that you can have a plan for furniture and belongings. As adult children, you have ideas of what you want (you know you do) from your parents home you probably have even had discussions about how to divvy everything up. By deciding on a senior living community and particular residence there, you can help your parents decide what furniture works the best. You may even stand inside the apartment and mentally place furniture in each room with your parents. Then you can take what you want but be nice and share. Oh and once everything is decided, make sure those who take stuff are there to collect their stash by a certain date and time.
Pare Down the Stuff
Once you have a plan, it is time to pare down the stuff. Your parents no longer need as much so get them to think in terms of what they NEED versus what they WANT. For example, they no longer need 24 place settings of dishes and flatware; instead, make a suggestion to keep four or six place settings. The same goes with any collections your mother has accumulated over the years by proposing she keep two to three favorite pieces as d'cor in their new residence. For the mementos that belong to your parents, take it with you so you can take pictures and make a memory book of everything as a gift.
Handle the Keepsakes with Kid Gloves
If your mother is like most, there are boxes upon boxes of art projects from school as well as favorite outfits, old baseball gloves and, the clay ash trays that you made in kindergarten. Your parents (mainly your mom) love these so handle the keepsakes with kid gloves. You may want to give each adult child and let each one of you take his or her own stash.
Consult Professionals
If you think you need help, you may want to consult professionals consultants who work exclusively with people to help them de-clutter and downsize. Sometimes they have the ability to help your parents get rid of what they do not need so that moving is easier and way less stressful. Plus, they are objective about everything there is no emotional attachment to anything from their perspective.
The best tip we can offer you is to be patient and understanding. There is a lot of emotion wrapped up in the process of downsizing. Not only are your parents giving up what they know as normal to move to a community full people in the later years of their lives as well.

Other Articles You May Like

A Place You Can Truly Call Home At Ona Solutions

A Place You Can Truly Call Home At Ona Solutions, we understand how important it is for women to feel safe, supported, and comfortableespecially when it comes to housing. Thats why weve created a secure, affordable living environment where peace of mind comes standard.Whether youre a female Veteran, a retiree, a student, or receiving SSI/SSDI, you deserve a place that feels like home. At Ona Solutions, we offer just thatwith flexible, all-inclusive options designed with you in mind. Affordable Monthly Rates: Shared Room: $850/month Private Room: $900/month One-Time Move-In Fee: $75 Our Residents Include: Female Veterans Retirees SSI/SSDI Recipients Female Students & Teachers All-Inclusive Living: Free Wi-Fi Utilities Included No surprise bills, just simple, comfortable living.Here, safety meets serenityso you can focus on what matters most. Whether you're transitioning, settling down, or simply looking for a supportive space, Ona Solutions is here for you. Contact Us Today to Learn More or Schedule a Tour: (239) 688-4815 | (239) 785-3315 Stay Connected:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/onasolutionsllc/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onasolutionsllc2024/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ona-solutions-llc/ Website: www.onasolutionsllc.com

Should You Downsize in 2025?

As we get older, life naturally starts to feel a bit different. What once felt like the perfect family home can start to feel like a LOT of work. Cleaning empty bedrooms, climbing stairs, keeping up the yardsometimes it all adds up to more stress than comfort.If youve been thinking, Do I really need all this space?youre not alone. More and more older adults across the country, including here in the DallasFort Worth (DFW) area, are choosing to downsize (or as we like to say, rightsize) to something that better fits their current lifestyle. In fact, a 2024 report by the North Texas Real Estate Information Systems (NTREIS) showed that DFW homeowners aged 60+ accounted for nearly 1 in 4 home sales, many of whom were selling larger homes to move into smaller, more manageable properties or senior living communities. Whether it's relocating to a smaller home, a condo, or a retirement community, the decision can lead to less upkeep, more freedom, and a boost to your financesespecially in todays housing market. But with interest rates, housing prices, and inflation all playing a part, how do you know whats right for you?Lets break it down.Whats Happening with Interest Rates in 2025?As of April 2025, interest rates are still relatively high, with the average 30-year mortgage hovering around 6.7%7%. That might seem like a reason to waitbut for seniors who are selling a large, mortgage-free home, downsizing still makes strong financial sense.Why? Because many retirees are cash buyersmeaning you may not need a mortgage at all when purchasing a smaller home, condo, or moving into a retirement community.You can sell your current home (often at a high price, since real estate values have remained strong in many parts of the country) and use the equity to pay outright for a smaller propertyor invest it for future needs.Whats the Smarter Move: Smaller Home or Retirement Community?Before you start packing boxes or browsing condo listings, take a moment to reflect. Ask yourself: Do I want to cut monthly costs and free up some equity? Do I crave more social opportunities, built-in amenities, and less responsibility when it comes to maintaining a home?If you're nodding yes, downsizing may be the right next step. But the type of move depends on your lifestyle: A smaller home or condo may be perfect if you still want independence, privacy, and flexibility. A senior or retirement community is ideal if you value connection, convenience, and amenities like fitness classes, dining services, and on-site healthcare. Lets Talk Numbers: Is Downsizing Worth It?Heres a snapshot of the financial perks of downsizing in todays market:Lower Monthly Costs Housing payments: Based on a 2024 study from StorageCafe.com, downsizing from a 4-bedroom to a 2-bedroom home can save up to $200,000$500,000 depending on your location. Utilities: Smaller spaces mean lower bills. According to a survey conducted by Texas-based pre-paid electric company, Payless Power, nearly 20% of Americans downsize to cut energy costs. Property taxes & insurance: Historically, both of these usually decrease with a smaller, lower-valued home. Unlocking Equity Selling your current home can free up hundreds of thousands of dollars in equity. That money can be used to: Invest in income-generating accounts or annuities Pay for healthcare, travel, or family support Cover future long-term care or in-home support services Lower Maintenance = Less Stress Repairs, yard work, and home maintenance costs all shrink with smaller properties or move-in-ready communities. If you move into a retirement community, things like snow shoveling, lawn care, and even housekeeping may be included. But What About the Costs of Moving?Its a great question. Moving can come with its own expensesbut many of those are one-time costs, and theyre often far outweighed by long-term savings and improved quality of life.Partnering with a senior relocation company like WellRive takes the stress out of downsizing by handling every detaildecluttering, packing, staging, coordinating the home sale, and getting you comfortably settled into your new space. Having dedicated, experienced support during a major life transition isnt just helpfulits truly invaluable.Lets Make This Your Best Move YetDownsizing isnt about giving upits about gaining more. More time, more freedom, and more peace of mind when it comes to your finances. Whether you're exploring smaller homes or considering a senior community, were here to support you. Contact WellRive today at 469-526-4201 and discover how downsizing can open up a wealth of possibilities!

Alzheons Alzheimers Trial Shows Promising Results Were Honored to Be Part of It

Alzheon has reported encouraging results from its Phase 2 trial of ALZ-801, an oral treatment for early Alzheimers disease. The study showed cognitive benefits, a 28% reduction in hippocampal atrophy, and a strong safety profile, particularly for individuals with two copies of the APOE4 gene. With the Phase 3 trial now fully enrolled, topline results are expected in the near future. If successful, ALZ-801 could become the first oral anti-amyloid therapy for high-risk patients. Aqualane is proud to be part of this groundbreaking research and extend our deepest gratitude to all participants whose contributions are shaping the future of Alzheimers treatment.

Local Services By This Author

Aston Gardens At Pelican Marsh, The Inn

Assisted Living 4800 Aston Gardens Way, Naples, Florida, 34109

Aston Gardens at Pelican Marsh offers exceptional retirement programs in Naples with world-class facilities and lifestyle programs which are focused on improving the quality of life of our residents. We have revamped our Sensations dining room which showcases the exhibition kitchen, Legends Bar & Lounge, a brand-new movie theater and our new Grande Lobby, perfect for new social experiences. These amenities are part of our remodeling project that aims to offer a fresh look and feel to our residents. Schedule a complimentary tour of our retirement community today by filling out our online form. 

Aston Gardens At Pelican Marsh

Memory Care 4800 Aston Gardens Way, Naples, Florida, 34109

Welcome to Aston Gardens at Pelican Marsh in Naples, one of Florida's most prestigious and exclusive cities. Our community is situated overlooking the Greg Norman-designed Tiburon Golf Course and interior lakes and fountains on the campus. Residents are within minutes of a host of cultural destinations, fine dining, name-brand shopping, and entertainment attractions. We offer an all-inclusive, affordable country club lifestyle with golf course vistas and five-star resort amenities, services and carefree living programs. There are a variety of floor plans from which to choose, and an elegantly appointed 20,375-square-foot Grande Clubhouse where you will find exciting programs, fine dining and good times.

Aston Gardens At Pelican Marsh

Independent Living 4800 Aston Gardens Way, Naples, Florida, 34109

Welcome to Aston Gardens at Pelican Marsh in Naples, one of Florida's most prestigious and exclusive cities. Our community is situated overlooking the Greg Norman-designed Tiburon Golf Course and interior lakes and fountains on the campus. Residents are within minutes of a host of cultural destinations, fine dining, name-brand shopping, and entertainment attractions. We offer an all-inclusive, affordable country club lifestyle with golf course vistas and five-star resort amenities, services and carefree living programs. There are a variety of floor plans from which to choose, and an elegantly appointed 20,375-square-foot Grande Clubhouse where you will find exciting programs, fine dining and good times.